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Christopher Smithard (winner of 2013 Jack Bloor Race)

photo: worldphoto

Nominated for

With big margin the biggest surprise on the podium in a World Cup race in 2013. Less famous than all the other nominees - starting the season ranked around 200th place in the World Ranking with a 48th place in the World Cup as his top result.

StoryMade the achievement of his life in the Nordic Tour opening race in Oslo - which was also a World Cup race. Smithard took the lead from an early start and held it for 45 minutes. In the end it was good enough for a podium place - finishing 4th. When asked about his feelings after the race, the answer was "- A bit shocked to be honest. I knew it was a good race technically, but I didn’t think I was running quickly enough for a result like that". Smithard won the British Championships sprint in 2012, but has struggled with injuries at times.